Bishop mark

The Bishop Mark was a British postmark introduced in 1661 to show the receiver of a letter the date on which it was received by the post and to ensure that letters were not delayed in being dispatched. These marks were all struck in black ink, usually on the rear of the letter. They were named after Henry Bishop, Postmaster General from 1660 to 1663.

The first type was in use from 1661 until 1673. The diameter of the circle was 13 mm and the letters were serifed. In 1673, a new mark was brought into use which had a diameter of between 13 and 14 mm. The type used from this point was sans-serif and this continued in use until 1713. In 1713, larger handstamps were introduced which ranged in size from 14 to 20 mm. The layout of these was also changed, with the month appearing at the base. This type remained in use until 1787 when it was replaced by the double circle type.